Editing Balance theory (section)

==P-O-X model==
[[File:Pox.jpg|thumb|Heider's P-O-X model]]
For example: a Person (<math>P</math>) who likes (<math>+</math>) an Other (<math>O</math>) person will be balanced by the same valence attitude on behalf of the other.  Symbolically, <math>P (+) > O</math> and <math>P < (+) O</math> results in psychological balance.

This can be extended to things or objects (<math>X</math>) as well, thus introducing [[triadic relation]]ships.  If a person <math>P</math> likes object <math>X</math> but dislikes other person <math>O</math>, what does <math>P</math> feel upon learning that person <math>O</math> created the object <math>X</math>?  This is symbolized as such:
*<math> P (+) > X </math>
*<math> P (-) > O </math>
*<math> O (+) > X </math>

Cognitive balance is achieved when there are three positive links or two negatives with one positive. Two positive links and one negative like the example above creates imbalance or [[cognitive dissonance]].

Multiplying the signs shows that the person will perceive imbalance (a negative multiplicative product) in this relationship, and will be motivated to correct the imbalance somehow.  The Person can either:
* Decide that <math>O</math> isn't so bad after all,
* Decide that <math>X</math> isn't as great as originally thought, or
* Conclude that <math>O</math> couldn't really have made <math>X</math>.

Any of these will result in psychological balance, thus resolving the dilemma and satisfying the drive.  (Person <math>P</math> could also avoid object <math>X</math> and other person <math>O</math> entirely, lessening the stress created by psychological imbalance.)

To predict the outcome of a situation using Heider's balance theory, one must weigh the effects of all the potential results, and the one requiring the least amount of effort will be the likely outcome.

Determining if the triad is balanced is simple math:

<math> + + + = + </math>; Balanced.

<math> - + - = + </math>; Balanced.

<math> - + + = - </math>; Unbalanced.